In the Lok Sabha and the Vidhan Sabhas, the Speaker has vast powers and extensive functions. Elaborating on it, highlight the grounds on which the Office of the Speaker has been criticised and the reforms required in this regard.

Favour ruling party - several anti defection cases rendered by SC. Way Forward - Reforms: (1) Ensure Independence - e.g. In Britain, after being elected speaker, resign from party. In India, N. Sanjiva Reddy resigned - should be encouraged (2) Models - G V Mavalankar = 1st Speaker noted 'once speaker, rise above party & politics, Speaker for all'. Speaker is the head of legislative organ & guarantee of Democracy in law forming & Nation. He must be independent & strengthened beyond party politics.

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